mount meru
Quick Overview
Duration
3 - 4 days
Difficulty
Moderate
Highlight
Stunning views
Success rate
85 - 90%
Trek Overview
Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest peak at 4,566 meters (14,980 feet), is located in Arusha National Park, near Arusha city and Kilimanjaro. Known for its striking volcanic cone and crater, Meru offers a scenic yet challenging trek with diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests teeming with wildlife to alpine meadows and rocky ridges.
The trek is usually completed in 4 days and is ideal for acclimatization before climbing Kilimanjaro or as a stand-alone adventure. Highlights include stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, wildlife encounters (buffalo, giraffe, and monkeys), and the breathtaking sunrise from the summit, Socialist Peak.
Though less crowded than Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru provides a rewarding climb for those seeking both solitude and adventure. The success rate is high, thanks to a gradual ascent and experienced guides.
Mount Meru Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Momella Gate to Miriakamba Hut
Today, your trek begins at Momella Gate where you’ll register and meet your guide. Hike through the lush rainforest of Arusha National Park, keeping an eye out for wildlife such as buffalo, giraffes, and a variety of birds. As you ascend, you’ll leave the forest behind and enter the montane zone. Reach Miriakamba Hut for your first night on the mountain.
- Morning: Begin your adventure at Momella Gate. After registration, start your trek through the lush rainforest of Arusha National Park. Look out for buffalo, giraffes, and a variety of bird species.
- Afternoon: As you ascend, transition from the dense forest to the montane zone before arriving at Miriakamba Hut for your first night.
- Details:
- Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
- Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
- Overnight: Miriakamba Hut
Day 2: Miriakamba Hut to Saddle Hut + Optional Little Meru Hike
- Morning: Hike through alpine meadows and ridges to Saddle Hut. Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance.
- Afternoon (Optional): Take an acclimatization hike to Little Meru (3,820m) for stunning views and better preparation for the summit.
- Details:
- Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
- Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
- Overnight: Saddle Hut
Day 3: Saddle Hut to Summit (4,566m), then Descend to Momella Gate
- Midnight Start: Begin your ascent to Socialist Peak via Rhino Point (3,800m) and Cobra Point (4,350m). Reach the summit by sunrise for awe-inspiring views.
- Morning: Descend back to Saddle Hut for a short rest.
- Afternoon: Continue descending past Miriakamba Hut to reach Momella Gate, completing your trek.
- Details:
- Distance: 26 km (16.2 miles total: 10 km summit + 16 km descent)
- Hiking Time: 12–14 hours
Day 1: Momella Gate to Miriakamba Hut
Today, your trek begins at Momella Gate where you’ll register and meet your guide. Hike through the lush rainforest of Arusha National Park, keeping an eye out for wildlife such as buffalo, giraffes, and a variety of birds. As you ascend, you’ll leave the forest behind and enter the montane zone. Reach Miriakamba Hut for your first night on the mountain.
- Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
- Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
- Overnight: Miriakamba Hut
Day 2: Miriakamba Hut to Saddle Hut
Continue your trek through alpine meadows and rocky ridges as you ascend to Saddle Hut, located at the base of Mount Meru’s summit. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance. You’ll also have the option for an acclimatization hike to Little Meru (3,820m), which offers stunning views and prepares you for the higher altitude.
- Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
- Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
- Overnight: Saddle Hut
Day 3: Saddle Hut to Summit (4,566m), then Descend to Miriakamba Hut
Start your summit attempt early in the morning (around midnight). Ascend through rocky terrain, passing Rhino Point (3,800m) and Cobra Point (4,350m) before reaching the summit, Socialist Peak (4,566m), just in time for sunrise. After reaching the summit, descend back to Saddle Hut for a brief rest, then continue down to Miriakamba Hut for the night.
- Distance: 16 km (9.9 miles)
- Hiking Time: 10–12 hours
- Overnight: Miriakamba Hut
Day 4: Miriakamba Hut to Momella Gate, Departure
After breakfast, descend through the lush forest, spotting more wildlife along the way, and make your way back to Momella Gate. Once you reach the gate, you’ll receive your summit certificate. From here, transfer back to Arusha for rest or onward travel.
- Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
- Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
- Meru cost Includes
- Moshi/Arusha Stays: 2 comfy nights in a hotel before & after your climb.
- Transport Covered: Rides to & from the mountain starting point.
- Park Fees Included: Permits, camping/hut fees & park taxes included.
- Expert Team: Guides, assistants, cooks & porters for support.
- Emergency Oxygen: Available for safety (not for regular use).
- Camping Gear: Tents, sleeping pads, shared dining area with lights.
- Mountain Meals: Delicious & nutritious food to fuel your adventure.
- Meru cost excludes
- Flights & Visas: These are separate, make a plan to arrange them yourself.
- Meals at Hotel: Accommodation is on B&B plan, lunch and dinner are on you.
- Personal Gear: Pack what you need for the climb. Contact us for a detailed packing list.
- Gratitude is Golden: Tips for the crew are welcome!
- Prices for Mount Meru
| Number of People | 1 pax | 2 pax | 3 pax | 4 pax | 5 pax | 6 pax | 7 pax | 8+ pax |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 Days | $925 | $736 | $672 | $622 | $618 | $615 | $610 | $605 |
| 4 Days | $1,155 | $960 | $910 | $860 | $855 | $845 | $830 | $820 |
